For some of us, when the uniform comes off, the battle continues.”
That powerful message from Veterans’ Foundation® Ambassador Mark Ormrod MBE is a moving reminder of the difference your amazing support is making to the military community across the country.
Speaking at the charity’s 10th anniversary celebration in Edinburgh, Mark joined supporters, partners and organisations from across the Armed Forces community to reflect on a decade of impact and look ahead to changing even more lives in the years to come.
Mark shared his deeply personal journey after losing both legs and his right arm whilst serving with the Royal Marines, in Afghanistan, on Christmas Eve 2007.
He spoke about the family, military community and charities that helped him rebuild his life, and his determination to speak up for veterans whose stories go unheard.
“I feel a responsibility to use the spotlight I have to represent the veterans who aren’t in it,” he told guests.
Mark warned that, although conflicts disappear from the headlines, the need for help can continue for decades.
“There are thousands of veterans and families still living with the consequences of their service, whether the rest of the country sees them or not.”
The evening also marked the launch of the Armed Forces Pledge, inviting people to show their lasting commitment to those who serve and their families.
Mark’s appeal was simple: “Show that you haven’t forgotten about us.”
Founded in Edinburgh in 2016, the Veterans’ Foundation has awarded more than £40.9 million through over 1,500 grants to more than 600 organisations across the UK.
That funding helps charities provide vital care and life-changing support.
Chair of Trustees Andrew Anderson explained how sustained funding helps those organisations hire support teams, deliver frontline services and plan for the future.
“Our return is not financial. It’s impact,” he said.
Andrew committed to taking the Foundation’s total investment in life-changing projects beyond £200 million within the next decade.
“That kind of growth and impact only happens because good people trust what we do with their money.”
Every grant and every project begins with people choosing to help.
Thank you for making these first 10 years possible and for standing with us as we work to change even more lives over the next decade.
